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Muwonge H, Kasujja H, Niyonzima N, Atugonza C, Kasolo J, Lugaajju A, Nfambi J, Fred SL, Damani AM, Kimuli I, Zavuga R, Nakazzi F, Kigozi E, Nakanjako D, Kateete DP, Bwanga F. Unique circulating microRNA profiles in epidemic Kaposi's sarcoma. Noncoding RNA Res 2022; 7:114-122. [PMID: 35570854 PMCID: PMC9065625 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) causes Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). Kaposi sarcoma in HIV/AIDS patients is referred to as epidemic KS and is the most common HIV-related malignancy worldwide. The lack of a diagnostic assay to detect latent and early-stage disease has increased disease morbidity and mortality. Serum miRNAs have previously been used as potential biomarkers of normal physiology and disease. In the current study, we profiled unique serum miRNAs in patients with epidemic KS to generate baseline data to aid in developing a miRNA-based noninvasive biomarker assay for epidemic KS. Methods This was a comparative cross-sectional study involving 27 patients with epidemic KS and 27 HIV-positive adults with no prior diagnosis or clinical manifestation of KS. DNA and RNA were isolated from blood and serum collected from study participants. Nested PCR for circulating HHV-8 DNA was performed on the isolated DNA, whereas miRNA library preparation and sequencing for circulating miRNA were performed on the RNA samples. The miRge2 pipeline and EdgeR were used to analyse the sequencing data. Results Fifteen out of the 27 epidemic KS-positive subjects (55.6%) tested positive for HHV-8 DNA, whereas only 3 (11.1%) out of the 27 HIV-positive, KS-negative subjects tested positive for HHV-8 DNA. Additionally, we found a unique miRNA expression signature in 49 circulating miRNAs in epidemic KS subjects compared to subjects with no epidemic KS, with 41 miRNAs upregulated and 8 miRNAs downregulated. Subjects with latent KS infection had a differential upregulation of circulating miR-193a compared to HIV-positive, KS-negative subjects for whom circulating HHV-8 DNA was not detected. Further analysis of serum from epidemic KS patients revealed a miRNA signature according to KS tumor status and time since first HIV diagnosis. Conclusions This study reveals unique circulating miRNA profiles in the serum of patients with epidemic KS versus HIV-infected subjects with no KS, as well as in subjects with latent KS. Many of the dysregulated miRNAs in epidemic KS patients were previously reported to have crucial roles in KS infection and latency, highlighting their promising roles as potential biomarkers of latent or active KS infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruna Muwonge
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
- Habib Medical School, Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), Uganda
| | - Hassan Kasujja
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nixon Niyonzima
- Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI)-Fred Hutch Collaboration, P. O Box 3935, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Carolyne Atugonza
- Medical and Molecular Laboratories, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Allan Lugaajju
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Nfambi
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sembajwe Larry Fred
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ali Moses Damani
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ivan Kimuli
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Zavuga
- Uganda Peoples Defence forces (UPDF), P. O Box 123, Bombo, Uganda
| | - Faith Nakazzi
- Medical and Molecular Laboratories, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edgar Kigozi
- Medical and Molecular Laboratories, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Damalie Nakanjako
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Patrick Kateete
- Medical and Molecular Laboratories, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Freddie Bwanga
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P. O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Kalange M, Nansunga M, Kasozi KI, Kasolo J, Namulema J, Atusiimirwe JK, Ayikobua ET, Ssempijja F, Munanura EI, Matama K, Semuyaba I, Zirintunda G, Okpanachi AO. Correction to: Antimalarial combination therapies increase gastric ulcers through an imbalance of basic antioxidative-oxidative enzymes in male Wistar rats. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:245. [PMID: 32423464 PMCID: PMC7236118 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05084-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
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Kasozi KI, Nakimbugwe D, Ninsiima HI, Kasolo J, Matama K, Safiriyu AA, Owembabazi E, Ssempijja F, Okpanachi AO, Valladares MB. Calcium and s100a1 protein balance in the brain-heart axis in diabetic male Wistar rats. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2020; 32:/j/jbcpp.ahead-of-print/jbcpp-2020-0074/jbcpp-2020-0074.xml. [PMID: 33098631 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2020-0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Calcium deregulation in diabetes mellitus (DM) is central to the brain-heart axis pathology. This has led to the use of medical plants in complementary medicine such as Amaranthus hypochondriacus (GA). The objective of the study was to establish the effects of grain amaranth feed supplementation on calcium, s100al protein and antioxidant levels on the brain-heart axis in diabetic male Wistar rats. Methods The study involved six groups (n=5) with DM being induced in 20 rats. To the diabetic rats, Group I received mixtard®, Group II was positive control, Groups III and IV received GA feed supplementation at 25 and 50%. In the nondiabetic rats (n=10), Group V received 50% grain amaranth while Group VI was the negative control. The brain and heart tissues were harvested after five weeks and processed using standard methods. Results Grain amaranth feed supplementation led to improved calcium levels in DM as compared to the positive control. This also led to increased s100a1, antioxidant levels in the brain-heart axis during DM. This then protected the tissues against oxidative damage, thus preserving tissue function and structure. Conclusions Grain amaranth's actions on calcium signaling subsequently affected s100a1 protein levels, leading to improved tissue function in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- School of Medicine, Kabale University, Box 317 Kabale, Uganda
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, United Kingdom
| | - Dorothy Nakimbugwe
- Department of Food Technology & Nutrition, School of Food Technology, Nutrition & Bio-Engineering, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kevin Matama
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Abass Alao Safiriyu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, India
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71 Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Elna Owembabazi
- School of Anatomical Science, University of the Witwatersrand, 29 Princess of Wales Terrace, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71 Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Fred Ssempijja
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71 Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Alfred Omachonu Okpanachi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71 Bushenyi, Uganda
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Ayikobua ET, Kasolo J, Kasozi KI, Eze ED, Safiriyu A, Ninsiima HI, Kiyimba K, Namulema J, Jjesero E, Ssempijja F, Semuyaba I, Mwandah DC, Kimanje KR, Kalange M, Okpanachi AO, Nansunga M. Synergistic action of propolis with levodopa in the management of Parkinsonism in Drosophila melanogaster. J Complement Integr Med 2020; 17:jcim-2019-0136. [PMID: 32386191 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2019-0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Background The Phosphatase and tensin-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1B9) mutant for Drosophila melanogaster is a key tool that has been used in assessing the pathology of Parkinsonism and its possible remedy. This research was targeted toward determining the effects of ethanolic extract of propolis, with levodopa therapy in the management of Parkinsonism. Method The PINK1B9 flies were divided into groups and fed with the different treatment doses of ethanoic extract of propolis. The treatment groups were subjected to 21 days of administration of propolis and the levodopa at different doses after which percentage climbing index, antioxidant activity and lifespan studies were done. Results Propolis alone improved motor activity, antioxidant and lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster than in PINK1 flies. Propolis in combination with levodopa significantly (P<0.05) improved physiological parameters at higher than lower concentrations in Parkinsonism Drosophila melanogaster demonstrating its importance in managing side effects associated with levodopa. Conclusion Propolis is a novel candidate as an alternative and integrative medicinal option to use in the management of Parkinsonism in both animals and humans at higher concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Tiyo Ayikobua
- Department of Physiology, School of Health Sciences, Soroti University, 211Soroti, Uganda
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University Mbale Campus, Box 203Mbale, Uganda
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, Makerere University College of health Science, Box 7072, KampalaUganda
| | - Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Department of Animal Production and Management, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Busitema University Arapai Campus, Box 203Soroti, Uganda
| | - Ejike Daniel Eze
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Abass Safiriyu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Herbert Izo Ninsiima
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kabale University, Box 317Kabale, Uganda
| | - Kennedy Kiyimba
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Jackline Namulema
- Department of Physiology, School of Health Sciences, Uzima University College - CUEA, P.O Box 2502-40100, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Edward Jjesero
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Fred Ssempijja
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University estern Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Ibrahim Semuyaba
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Daniel Chans Mwandah
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Kyobe Ronald Kimanje
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Muhamudu Kalange
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Alfred Omachonu Okpanachi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Institute of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Miriam Nansunga
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, St. Augustine International University, P.O Box 88, Kampala, Uganda
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Kalange M, Nansunga M, Kasozi KI, Kasolo J, Namulema J, Atusiimirwe JK, Ayikobua ET, Ssempijja F, Munanura EI, Matama K, Semuyaba I, Zirintunda G, Okpanachi AO. Antimalarial combination therapies increase gastric ulcers through an imbalance of basic antioxidative-oxidative enzymes in male Wistar rats. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:230. [PMID: 32326975 PMCID: PMC7178572 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05073-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Antimalarials are globally used against plasmodium infections, however, information on the safety of new antimalarial combination therapies on the gastric mucosa is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Artesunate-Amodiaquine and Artemether-Lumefantrine on ulcer induction. Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and major histological changes in male Wistar rats following ulcer induction using Indomethacin were investigated. Gastric ulcers were in four groups; Group I was administered Artesunate, group II received Artesunate-Amodiaquine, group III received Artemether-Lumefantrine, and group IV was a positive control (normal saline). Group V was the negative control consisting of healthy rats. RESULTS Antimalarial combination therapies were associated with a high gastric ulcer index than a single antimalarial agent, Artesunate. In addition, levels of MDA were significantly higher in the combination of therapies while levels of GSH were lower in comparison to Artesunate and the negative control. Microscopically, antimalarial combination therapies were associated with severe inflammation and tissue damage than Artesunate in the gastric mucosa showing that antimalarial combination therapies exert their toxic effects through oxidative stress mechanisms, and this leads to cellular damage. Findings in this study demonstrate a need to revisit information on the pharmacodynamics of major circulating antimalarial agents in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhamudu Kalange
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda.
| | - Miriam Nansunga
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda.
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jackline Namulema
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Uzima University College CUEA, Box 2502, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Jovile Kasande Atusiimirwe
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Tiyo Ayikobua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Soroti University, Soroti, Uganda.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Fred Ssempijja
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Edson Ireeta Munanura
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Therapeutics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Kevin Matama
- Department of Therapeutics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Ibrahim Semuyaba
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Gerald Zirintunda
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Busitema University Arapai Campus, Box 203, Soroti, Uganda
| | - Alfred Omachonu Okpanachi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
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Eze ED, Afodun AM, Kasolo J, Kasozi KI. Lycopene improves on basic hematological and immunological parameters in diabetes mellitus. BMC Res Notes 2019; 12:805. [PMID: 31831054 PMCID: PMC6909647 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-019-4841-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Diabetes is associated with an upset of hematological and immunological parameters in humans, however information on the effects of Lycopene is scarce. The aim of the study was to gain information on basic changes in hematological parameters as markers for safety since anemia as a complication in diabetic chemotherapy has been reported. Results Lycopene had anti-anemic effects and improved on the immune status of diabetic rats and these observations were dose independent. There was a decrease in neutrophil, low neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and platelet counts and stable albumin, globulin levels. Lycopene could exert its protective effects through a balance of basic hematological physiological variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ejike Daniel Eze
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Kabale University, Kabale, Uganda. .,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda.
| | - Adam Moyosore Afodun
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda.
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Kasozi KI, Bukenya A, Eze ED, Kasolo J, Tayebwa DS, Ssempijja F, Suubo J, Tamale A, Echoru I, Ntulume I, Onkoba SK, Micheni LN, Ayikobua ET, Asiimwe OH, Kalange M. Low concentrations of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (Yoba ®) are safe in male Drosophila melanogaster. BMC Res Notes 2019; 12:269. [PMID: 31088517 PMCID: PMC6518721 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-019-4297-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of the study was to generate information on the safety of probiotics, thus the study objectives were to evaluate the effects of Yoba® on basic physiochemical properties. The study assessed male w1118 Drosophila melanogaster which were provided food supplemented with Yoba® at 1%, 3%, 6%, and 12% on motor function, total protein, catalase activity, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity and lifespan. RESULTS Yoba® at high concentration (≥ 6%) increased locomotor activity in Drosophila melanogaster, however, total protein, catalase, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity were significantly higher at 1% Yoba® compared to 3%, 6%, and 12% Yoba®. Yoba consumed at 1% was associated with greater physiological benefits in Drosophila melanogaster. Findings in the study offer a rationale for the consumption of Yoba® at 1% in humans as is currently being promoted by the Yoba for Life consortium, however, high concentrations of Yoba® would disrupt physiological function as shown by this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Aisha Bukenya
- School of Pharmacy, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Ejike Daniel Eze
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Kabale University, Kabale, Uganda
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dickson Stuart Tayebwa
- College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Ssempijja
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Joy Suubo
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Andrew Tamale
- College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Echoru
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Ibrahim Ntulume
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Sarah Kemuma Onkoba
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Lisa Nkatha Micheni
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Tiyo Ayikobua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Oscar Hilary Asiimwe
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
| | - Muhamudu Kalange
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University Western Campus, Box 71, Bushenyi, Uganda
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Nabeta HW, Kasolo J, Kiggundu RK, Kiragga AN, Kiguli S. Serum vitamin D status in children with protein-energy malnutrition admitted to a national referral hospital in Uganda. BMC Res Notes 2015; 8:418. [PMID: 26346815 PMCID: PMC4562347 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-015-1395-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin D deficiency is a world-wide epidemic with recent estimates indicating that greater than 50% of the global population is at risk. In Uganda, 80% of healthy community children in a survey were found to be vitamin D insufficient. Protein-energy malnutrition is likely to be associated with vitamin D intake deficiency. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and the associated factors among children admitted with protein-energy malnutrition to the pediatrics wards of Mulago hospital in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS Consecutive sampling was done with 158 children, aged 6-24 months, enrolled in a cross sectional study. One hundred and seventeen malnourished and 41 non malnourished children were enrolled from the Acute Care unit, pediatrics in-patient wards, outpatient and immunization clinics, following informed consent obtained from the children's parents/guardians. Children with protein energy malnutrition were categorized based on anthropometric measurements of weight-for-height and weight for length compared with the recommended WHO reference Z-score. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, calcium and phosphate were assayed. RESULTS One hundred seventeen malnourished and 41 non malnourished children were enrolled. The majority of study participants were male, 91 (57.6%). The mean serum vitamin D levels among the malnourished was 32.5 mmol/L (±12.0 SD) and 32.2 mmol/L (10.9 SD) among the malnourished, p = 0.868. Fifteen (36.6%) of the non malnourished children and 51 (43.6%) of the malnourished had suboptimal levels, p = 0.689. Malnourished children admitted with meningitis and cerebral palsy had lower serum vitamin D levels than those with other infections. CONCLUSION There was no statistically significant difference in vitamin D values between the malnourished and non malnourished children. Clinicians should actively screen for children for serum vitamin D levels regardless of nutritional status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry W Nabeta
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Reuben K Kiggundu
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Agnes N Kiragga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Sarah Kiguli
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
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Nansunga M, Barasa A, Abimana J, Alele PE, Kasolo J. Safety and antidiarrheal activity of Priva adhaerens aqueous leaf extract in a murine model. J Ethnopharmacol 2014; 157:251-6. [PMID: 25304198 PMCID: PMC4252579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Priva adhaerens (Forssk.) Chiov., a wildly growing plant, is reported in central Uganda to be an effective traditional remedy for diarrhea. The objective of this study was to provide a scientific basis for the ethnopharmacological utility of this plant whose aqueous leaf and shoot extract was evaluated for acute toxicity and antidiarrheal activity using a murine model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Acute toxicity of the aqueous leaf and shoot extract was assessed after determining the major phytochemicals present in the extract. The aqueous leaf and shoot extract was assayed against castor oil-induced diarrhea, transit time, and enteropooling, in comparison to loperamide, a standard drug. RESULTS The oral LD50 value obtained for Priva adhaerens aqueous extract was greater than 5000mg/kg in rats; the aqueous leaf and shoot extract possessed several important phytochemicals. Furthermore, the aqueous extract significantly, and dose-dependently, reduced frequency of stooling in castor oil-induced diarrhea, intestinal motility, and castor oil-induced enteropooling in rats. CONCLUSION This murine model shows that it is relatively safe to orally use the aqueous leaf and shoot extract of Priva adhaerens. The aqueous extract contains phytochemicals that are active for the treatment of diarrhea in a rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Nansunga
- Department of Physiology, Kampala International University, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Ishaka, Uganda
| | - Ambrose Barasa
- Department of Physiology, Kampala International University, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Ishaka, Uganda
| | - Justus Abimana
- Department of Microbiology, Kampala International University, P.O. Box 71, Bushenyi, Ishaka, Uganda
| | - Paul E Alele
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda.
| | - Josephine Kasolo
- Department of Physiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Nansunga M, Manabe YC, Alele PE, Kasolo J. Association of testosterone levels with socio-demographic characteristics in a sample of Ugandan men. Afr Health Sci 2014; 14:348-55. [PMID: 25320583 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v14i2.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone, a male reproductive hormone, affects several physiological processes, such as sperm production, energy, strength, sexual behavior, sleep and the general well being of men. Normal levels of testosterone are necessary to effect these physiological processes. The objective of this study was to study the association between testosterone levels in a sample of Ugandan men with socio-demographic characteristics, and compare the testosterone levels of Ugandan men with that of men in other countries. METHODS Eighty men were enrolled from the medical campus at Makerere University. Blood samples were drawn from 7.00 - 8.00 a.m. and total testosterone was measured using radioimmunoassay. The free and bioavailable testosterone was calculated after measuring sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin in the blood samples. Self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain socio-demographic characteristics of the subjects. Biometric measurements including weight, height and waist circumference were also recorded. RESULTS Serum testosterone levels of Ugandan men were within the normal physiological ranges. Married participants and those with dependents had lower testosterone than unmarried participants and those without dependents respectively. Sexually active participants had lower testosterone levels than those who were not sexually active. CONCLUSION Testosterone levels were lower in association with several socio-demographic characteristics including being married, having dependents, and daily coital frequency. Further research is warranted into the relationship between testosterone levels and contributory sexual behavior that may be important in understanding the spread of HIV/AIDS, given its high prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Akugizibwe R, Kasolo J, Makubuya DB, Damani AM. Missed opportunities in the diagnosis and management of protein energy malnutrition among children under 5 years in Wakiso district, Uganda. J Public Health Epidemiol 2013; 5:463-470. [PMID: 25035810 PMCID: PMC4096943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is one of the leading causes of death among children below 5 years in Uganda. It develops after acute childhood illnesses despite children having received treatment from health facilities. This study assessed knowledge and practices of health workers in the diagnosis and management of PEM, which was used to establish missed opportunities to prevent severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in its management. This was a cross sectional descriptive study that used questionnaires and observation of health workers at Health Center IV (HCIV) in Wakiso district, Uganda. The clinical nutrition diagnosis of the children was then obtained. There were 44 health workers that assessed 225 children. Most of the health workers 32 (72.7%) had education in PEM management and over 60% of them knew the forms of PEM, clinical signs of kwashiorkor and marasmus and the factors that predispose to PEM. Health workers did not weigh 56 (24.9%) of the children, 193 (86%) children had no height taken and only 32 (14.2%) had mid upper arm circumference measured. The weight for height of 223 (99.2%) and weight for age of 109 (93%) children was not calculated. Only 38 (16.89%) were examined for edema and 40 (17.78%) for muscle wasting. Health workers diagnosed only 21 (9%) children with malnutrition, while researchers found 94 (31.9%) with malnutrition. Children who missed opportunity to have malnutrition diagnosed at the health facility were 73 (32.9%). The knowledge of health workers on PEM is adequate, but their practice is inadequate. There is missed opportunity to diagnose and manage PEM among children who present with acute illnesses at the health centers, hence missed opportunity to prevent SAM.
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Dika H, Kasolo J, Bimenya G. Thyroid hormones profile in students of Makerere College of Health Sciences in Kampala Uganda. Tanzan J Health Res 2010; 12:17-22. [PMID: 20737825 DOI: 10.4314/thrb.v12i1.56275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Serum concentrations of thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) are used to assess thyroid function. It is recommended that each laboratory or hospital should establish its own reference values of T4, T3 and TSH for their clients because these hormones vary with ethnicity, geographical and climatic conditions of a population. There is no documented study which has been done to determine the Thyroid hormones profile in Ugandan general population. This study is one of the first attempts to determine Thyroid hormones profile in healthy Ugandans. The main objective of this study was to determine the thyroid hormones profile of students of the Makerere College of Health Sciences in Kampala, Uganda. A cross sectional descriptive study was done involving 72 students, with the mean age of 24.17 +/- 4.48 years. Subjects who volunteered to participate in the study were interviewed; their height and body weight measured, 5 ml of blood withdrawn, and sera harvested. FT4 and T3 Radioimmuno Assay (RIA) were done and TSH was assayed using Immunoradiometric Assay (IRMA) technique. The mean serum concentration of FT4 was 17.016 +/- 3.847 mol/L. For T3, mean serum concentration was 1.43 +/- 0.825 nmol/L, and mean serum TSH level was 2.412 +/- 2.284 microIU/ml. Variations of serum concentrations of FT4, T3 and TSH with sex, age, or region of origin were not statistically significant. Serum concentration of TSH increased with increased body mass index (BMI). It was 2.073 +/- 1.907 microIU/ml for subjects with BMI of < or = 24.9 Kg/m2, 3.588 +/- 1.495 microIU/ml for subjects with BMI of 25 - 29.9 kg/m2 and 4.450 +/- 0.593 microIU/ml for subjects with BMI > or = 30 kg/m2 (P=0.009). However, BMI had no effect on serum concentrations of FT4 and T3. Serum concentrations of T4, T3 and TSH obtained from this study all differ with the values which are currently used as reference ranges in the country. We recommend a similar study involving a population representative of Ugandans to be conducted so as to establish normal reference values of T4, T3 and TSH for Ugandans. We also recommend BMI of patients to be taken into consideration during interpretation of serum TSH concentrations results.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Dika
- Department of Physiology, Weill Bugando University College of Health Sciences, Saint Augustine University of Tanzania, P.O. Box 1464, Mwanza, Tanzania.
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London L, Ncayiyana D, Sanders D, Kalebi A, Kasolo J. Zimbabwe: a crossroads for the health professions. S Afr Med J 2008; 98:777-778. [PMID: 19115750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
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Ncayiyana D, London L, Sanders D, Kalebi A, Kasolo J. Zimbabwe's humanitarian crisis. BMJ 2008; 337:a1286. [PMID: 18698094 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.a1286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Kasolo J. Here comes the roving pregnancy monitors. Afr Women Health 1993; 1:31-5. [PMID: 12345403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
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